As Breast Cancer Awareness Month continues, doctors are encouraging younger women to understand their risk and pay attention to changes in their bodies.

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation says women under 40 account for about 4% to 11% of breast cancer cases in the United States. Experts also say younger patients are more likely to have genetic risk factors for the disease.

"I certainly think you should be breast aware. It is really very important, just knowing what your normal is," said Dr. Yael Zack of White Plains Hospital.

Zack says women should talk to their medical provider if they notice a persistent change that lasts beyond a menstrual cycle.

"If you notice a persistent change that is staying past your menstrual cycle, that would be important to bring up with your medical provider," Zack said.